Responding to industry demand for offshore liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, ABS launched its "Guidance Notes for Building and Classing Offshore LNG Terminals" at this year's annual Offshore Technology Conference. The Guidance Notes provide industry with a comprehensive document outlining ABS procedures for LNG classification and cross-references ABS and other relevant industry documents for building LNG terminals.

Areas of emphasis within the Guidance Notes include the terminal structure; the hull design; the mooring system; the offloading system; LNG containment systems; process facilities; and support and safety systems. The document also addresses LNG terminal installation, hook-up and commissioning and surveys during construction and operation. Designers and operators alsomay consider risk-based alternatives to strict compliance with prescriptive rules. The Guidance Notes facilitate industry development of both gravity-based and floating terminals contemplated for offshore installation.